Feds Seek Parties Interested in Performing Basin Studies

Jan 05, 2009

The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking letters of interest from non-federal entities throughout the 17 western states to conduct river basin or sub-basin studies where water supply and demand imbalances may exist.

"Basin Studies will examine water supply issues and study needs of unique basins in the West," said Reclamation Commissioner Bob Johnson. "These studies will help Reclamation, states, and local officials meet growing water demands while using the best science."

The Basin Studies will identify basin-wide water supply issues that potentially may be resolved with changes to water supply system operations, facilities modifications, development of new facilities, or non-structural changes. The studies will incorporate the latest science, engineering technology, climate models, and innovation.

This program is part of the Water for America initiative. This initiative was developed under Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne to help state, tribal, and local governments better conserve, manage, and develop their vital water resources to meet future challenges and demands.

This is the first step of a two-step selection process. Non-federal entities must submit a short letter of interest to their respective Reclamation Regional Office by Feb. 4. These letters will be reviewed and those selected, according to published criteria, will work with Reclamation staff to develop a joint study proposal that will be evaluated and ranked by a Reclamation-wide review committee. The Basin Studies will be cost-shared on a 50/50 basis with willing state, tribal, and local partners, and will generally be two years in duration. Because this is not a financial assistance program, Reclamation's share of the study costs may only be used to support work done by Reclamation or its contractors.